By News Editor
Chief Justice Luke Malaba has officially opened Zimbabwe’s 2026 legal year, announcing a major push to use technology and performance management to improve the justice system for all citizens.
In his keynote address, Chief Justice Malaba stated that the new theme for the year is “Using Performance Management and Technology to Ensure Quality, Inclusive and Sustainable Judicial Service.” He explained this means the courts will focus on being more efficient, accessible, and fair for everyone. “The theme places performance management and technology at the centre of court operations,” he said. “It is a declaration of our commitment to adopt these as strategic tools for a truly principled Judicial Service.”
The Chief Justice outlined three main goals for the judiciary: delivering justice that meets high standards and inspires public trust; ensuring that everyone, no matter their status or location, has equal access to the courts; and building a justice system that is strong, well-resourced, and can last for generations.
A significant part of the plan involves expanding the use of technology, particularly the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS). This digital system allows for electronic filing of cases, virtual hearings, and better tracking of court processes. Four more magistrates court provinces will be connected to this system in 2026. The judiciary is also beginning to explore the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for tasks like transcribing court proceedings, with caution to avoid bias.
Chief Justice Malaba acknowledged that a shortage of judges and magistrates, compared to the growing population and number of cases, remains a major challenge. He stressed that increasing judicial staff is critical for the system to function effectively. He reported that in 2025, the superior courts successfully reduced their backlog of cases by over 2,400. This was aided by measures like dismissing long-abandoned cases and holding special court circuits to address case loads.
The address coincided with the launch of the Judicial Service Commission’s new Strategic Plan for 2026-2030, which will guide the courts’ work in line with the national development goals. The ceremony also paid tribute to judicial officers who passed away in 2025, including Supreme Court Judge Justice Feliciah Chatukuta. In concluding, Chief Justice Malaba called for continued collaboration with government and development partners to build a world-class justice system that serves all Zimbabweans.
